Lead Playworker

Active8 Minds; Havant; On-site; GBP 10,000 - 40,000; Full time

Job summary

A community-focused organization in Havant is seeking a Lead Playworker to create engaging activities for children. You'll plan and lead inclusive play sessions while fostering a supportive environment. The right candidate will possess experience working with children and excellent communication skills. This role offers a chance to make a real difference in children's wellbeing and developmental journey. A nurturing and positive approach is essential, and you'll benefit from additional training and career growth opportunities.

Benefits

Full induction and paid additional training

Fully funded DBS check

Opportunities for career development

Qualifications

• Experience working with children in a playwork, childcare, or similar setting.
• Positive, caring, and compassionate approach while being calm under pressure.
• Willingness to gain relevant childcare or playwork qualifications.

Responsibilities

• Plan and lead a variety of inclusive play and activity sessions.
• Motivate and support your team of playworkers.
• Ensure all sessions are safe and engaging for children.

Skills

Communication skills

Ability to engage children

Team motivation

Education

Relevant childcare or playwork qualifications

Job description

Inspire. Create. Make a Difference.

Do you love working with children and creating fun, engaging activities?

Active8 Minds is looking for a Lead Playworker to join our friendly team and help children learn, grow and play in a safe, exciting environment.

If you’re upbeat, organised and a natural role model, this could be the perfect opportunity for you!

What you’ll be doing

• Planning and leading a variety of inclusive play and activity sessions.
• Motivating and supporting your team of playworkers to deliver fun and creative experiences.
• Ensuring all sessions are safe, well‑prepared and engaging for every child.
• Building positive relationships and communicating confidently with parents and staff.
• Monitoring safeguarding and reporting any concerns in line with our policies.
• Making sure every child leaves with a smile and great memories of their day!

What we’re looking for

• Experience working with children in a playwork, childcare or similar setting.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
• A positive, caring and compassionate approach – calm under pressure and confident making decisions.
• Ability to inspire and engage children through play and creative activities.
• Relevant childcare or playwork qualifications (or willingness to gain them).

Why join Active8 Minds?

• A role where you’ll make a real difference to children’s wellbeing and development.
• Full induction and paid additional training, including a fully funded DBS check.
• Supportive team culture with a clear focus on safeguarding and child welfare.
• Opportunities to grow and develop your career in playwork and childcare.

Safeguarding Commitment

Active8 Minds is committed to promoting the welfare of children and expects all staff to share this commitment.

Successful candidates will complete safeguarding training and adhere to our Safer Recruitment & Safeguarding Policy.

How to apply

Send your CV and a covering letter.

Shortlisted candidates will be invited to a two‑stage interview process and a full onboarding programme.